Tips to get a smooth career break-through after a sabbatical
| Wednesday | 14th February, 2018Summary:
With the government lethargic about increasing essential amenities for women workforce who want to start a family, more and more women are taking a break from their regular job to embrace motherhood. The continuing discrimination of pay for the same kind of work for both the sexes also acts as a damper for the women in work.
Taking a break from a regular job is a liberating experience but not without ramifications. Getting back on our feet can be challenging.
It not just hurts the kitchen economy but also an extended break can also affect the earning potential of a woman. It keeps a harmful impression on the increments and promotions, it can also impact their development as a professional.
Rejoining will mean adjusting to a newer and more evolved marketplace of skills and stepping out of the comfort zone. Here are some ways to retain your employability during the break so that the comeback can be as smooth as possible
Face the interview with the right attitude
Whatever be the reason for the sabbatical-family, health or education- a career break makes recruiters sceptical if you will be able to continue with the work or has brushed up her skills when on a break. Even if one manages to convince them about their ability. So, one must be prepared to explain the reasons for the break. Also, one must be ready to face questions such as-What if the problem resurfaces. Why do you want to join work now? What did you do during the break?
Know about your changed choices in work field
Before the HR manager puts this question to you, ask yourself: Why do I want to work again? Unless you are doing it for financial reasons, the first step should be to analyze your decision to return to the workforce.
Much would have changed since you left. At this stage, analyze what you are capable of handling. This is crucial if you had quit due to personal responsibilities.
Update yourself with the new demands of the market
Employers want people who are abreast of the latest trends related to work. Therefore, stay updated during the break. The traditional ways to brush up skills and knowledge, books, magazines and courses help. However, staying in the field through freelance work is best.
Network to find a better chance
Keep in touch with old colleagues and employers. Networking will help you search for an appropriate opening or get good references that can increase your chances of getting selected for a job interview.
Compose your resume by an expert
A gap does not show well. But trying to cover it up makes it worse. So, explain the reasons clearly, either in the covering letter or a line in the resume. "Be clear in your communication. Most important, convey your sincerity and eagerness to take on the new assignment," says Chakraborty.
Recruiters often check your digital footprint. Align your profile on social and professional networks with your resume. If you do not have an account on these networks, make one. It will give you the option of explaining things in detail, which might not be possible in a two-page resume.